The recent news of Shah Rukh’s detention at the Newark airport for 2 hours because his name is ‘Khan’ is all over the news and goes out to prove the obvious:
1. Racism is still a big problem.
2. Americans (not all) need instructions to open a can of soup.
3. Being a ‘coloured’ human or having a last name of a particular race and ethnicity can get you in trouble (for no reason).
The sinking economy of the US on one hand invites Bollywood to come and shoot movies in their cities in order to promote tourism. And on the other hand they treat our industry folks (guests) in such an embarrassing manner.
It’s also true that many others – diplomats, ex-president of India, other Bollywood stars – have had to face a similar kind of treatment. For example: our ex-president, Mr. Kalam was frisked by an airline staff before boarding a flight to the US.
Our very own Indian spinner Bhajji can’t figure out what the fuss is all about – “I get frisked and checked all the time.”
The news of SRK has the Indian officials so infuriated that a “tit-for-tat” should be done for all Americans coming into India.
How would Americans feel if Obama or Clinton arrive at the airport in India, they are stripped search, and asked to name people they know from India, and also are not be allowed to make phone calls for at least 2 hours. Oh, and, by the way, an apology can be mailed or sent after the whole ordeal is over.
Some US officials are calling the situation as a ‘cultural mismatch,’ where the Indian rich and powerful are known to get out of tight spots by dropping names.
Although such incidents are very common, their isn’t much one can do. And such displays will continue till proper action is taken.
As readers – What do you think about the situation? And how can we counter it in the future?
Read the story: Times of India, Economic Times
